There are many South American travel packages you can book, but our comprehensive tour brings you to all the must-see sites of Chile, Argentina and Brazil. From the bustling urban centers of sophisticated Santiago, Buenos Aires (the “Paris of the South”) and Rio de Janeiro—watched over by none other than Christ the Redeemer—to the natural wonders of the Andean Mountains, Chilean Lake District, Bariloche, Argentine Pampas and the Iguassu Falls that span two countries. Memorable experiences on this 16-day escorted tour include traveling along one of National Geographic’s 10 Most Scenic Drives in the World, a visit to the grave of the infamous Evita Peron, an authentic Gaucho Fiesta and a passionate tango performance.

Itinerary at a Glance

2 nights in Santiago

1 night in Puerto Varas

2 nights in Bariloche

4 nights in Buenos Aires

2 nights in Iguassu Falls

2 nights in Rio de Janeiro

Tour Highlights

San Cristobal Hill (Santiago)

Picturesque Bariloche

Buenos Aires City Tour

Tango Show (Buenos Aires)

Iguassu Falls

Sugar Loaf Mountain (Rio)

Copacabana (Rio)

Activity Level: Explorer

Your Tour Includes

Round-trip airfare from Miami (New York-JFK available at additional cost)

Airfare taxes, fees & fuel surcharges

All intra-South America flights & ground transportation

Accommodations at deluxe & superior first-class hotels

19 meals: 13 buffet breakfasts (B), 1 lunch (L), 5 dinners (D)

Comprehensive sightseeing tours and admission fees

English-speaking Tour Director and local guides

smarTours® Activity Levels We believe world travel is for everyone! That’s why nearly all of our tours are designed to accommodate any fitness level. If you are wondering if a tour’s activity level is suited for you, please contact a member of our team at 1.800.337.7773.

Discoverer Comfortable pace. Involves minimal physical activity, such as climbing some stairs, walking for up to two hours at a time on primarily level ground and periods of standing.

Explorer A step up. Calls for moderate physical activity, including climbing stairs, walking up to two miles (possibly on uneven surfaces and/or hills) and standing for an hour or longer.

Adventurer Moderately active. Requires walking longer distances and standing for longer periods of time. You may encounter hills and uneven surfaces on several days, as well as longer days in general. Of our three tours ranked in this category, two include Machu Picchu.

Tour Itinerary

Click the Day by Day itinerary above (or swipe on mobile devices) to see the experiences that await on each day of your tour.

Depart from the U.S.

Your journey to exotic South America begins as you depart this evening on your overnight flight bound for Chile. Airfare from the U.S. is included.

Arrive in Santiago

Chile

This morning, you’ll touch down in Santiago, the lively capital of Chile, located between the Pacific Ocean and the majestic Andes. On arrival, ride to the top of San Cristobal Hill for a bird’s-eye view of the city and the Andean mountain range. Later, learn more about Santiago’s charms and history from a local expert who will take you on a tour of the Plaza de Armas, the city’s main square, and the nearby Cathedral. You’ll also see the Palacio de la Moneda—home of the president—and the Bohemian section of Bellavista with its art galleries, restaurants and vibrantly colored…

This morning, you’ll touch down in Santiago, the lively capital of Chile, located between the Pacific Ocean and the majestic Andes. On arrival, ride to the top of San Cristobal Hill for a bird’s-eye view of the city and the Andean mountain range. Later, learn more about Santiago’s charms and history from a local expert who will take you on a tour of the Plaza de Armas, the city’s main square, and the nearby Cathedral. You’ll also see the Palacio de la Moneda—home of the president—and the Bohemian section of Bellavista with its art galleries, restaurants and vibrantly colored homes. This tour concludes upon arrival at your upscale hotel, home base for an afternoon at your leisure. In the evening, join your Tour Director and fellow travelers for a brief information session, followed by a welcome dinner. D Hotel Atton Vitacura (or similar)

Santiago

You have the entire day to explore Santiago your way, at your own pace—or by joining an optional excursion. We recommend the Full-Day Vina del Mar, Valparaiso, and Winery Tour. It’s your chance to discover two enchanting coastal towns—Vina del Mar, known as the “Garden City,” and Valparaiso, also called the “Jewel of the Pacific”—as well as sip and savor the fruits of Chile’s thriving wine-making industry. B Hotel Atton Vitacura (or similar)

Santiago/Puerto Montt/Puerto Varas

Chile

Today, you’ll board a short flight to the southern port city of Puerto Montt, gateway to the Chilean Lake District. Upon arrival, enjoy a magnificent lookout over the city and bay before arriving in the nearby village of Puerto Varas, known as the “City of Roses.” Arrive at your hotel within walking distance of the magnificent lake. On a clear day, you’ll also enjoy views of Mount Osorno, a stunning, snow-capped volcano. Relax and linger over dinner at the hotel tonight. B/D Radisson Hotel Puerto Varas (or similar)

Lake Region/Bariloche

Argentina

Today’s unforgettable excursion is reputed to be one of the most scenic in the world. Traverse the Andean Mountains through the Lake District from Chile to Argentina. Enjoy dramatic landscapes, spectacular emerald green lakes, thundering waterfalls, snow-covered volcanoes and dense forests. The breathtaking scenery unfolds as you journey along winding roads overlooking the magical lakes of Chile’s Puyehue National Park and into Argentina’s equally amazing Nahuel Huapi National Park. Later in the day, you’ll arrive in the postcard-perfect town of Bariloche. B Hotel NH…

Today’s unforgettable excursion is reputed to be one of the most scenic in the world. Traverse the Andean Mountains through the Lake District from Chile to Argentina. Enjoy dramatic landscapes, spectacular emerald green lakes, thundering waterfalls, snow-covered volcanoes and dense forests. The breathtaking scenery unfolds as you journey along winding roads overlooking the magical lakes of Chile’s Puyehue National Park and into Argentina’s equally amazing Nahuel Huapi National Park. Later in the day, you’ll arrive in the postcard-perfect town of Bariloche. B Hotel NH Bariloche Edelweiss (or similar)

Bariloche

Argentina

With an idyllic setting reminiscent of the Swiss Alps, Bariloche is a lakeside town easily explored from your hotel. This morning, enjoy some time at your leisure—consider browsing the many nearby chocolate shops or enjoy a cup of coffee with a lake view. This afternoon, enjoy a “Small Circuit Tour,” recognized by National Geographic as one of the 10 most scenic drives in the world—highlighted by the forest, lakes and mountains surrounding Bariloche. The tour begins at Nahuel Huapi Lake, crosses the residential Melipal district and arrives at Playa Bonita, located in front of Huemul…

With an idyllic setting reminiscent of the Swiss Alps, Bariloche is a lakeside town easily explored from your hotel. This morning, enjoy some time at your leisure—consider browsing the many nearby chocolate shops or enjoy a cup of coffee with a lake view. This afternoon, enjoy a “Small Circuit Tour,” recognized by National Geographic as one of the 10 most scenic drives in the world—highlighted by the forest, lakes and mountains surrounding Bariloche. The tour begins at Nahuel Huapi Lake, crosses the residential Melipal district and arrives at Playa Bonita, located in front of Huemul Island. At the base of Campanario Hill, you can take a chair lift to the 3,444-foot summit for breathtaking views of Nahuel Huapi, St. Peter’s Peninsula, Victoria Island, the Catedral Mountains and more. Continue to the Llao Llao Peninsula where St. Edwards Chapel and the Llao Llao Hotel, two architectural gems, are nestled. You’ll continue, crossing the Angostura River, which joins lakes Moreno, Nahuel Huapi and Lopez Bay at the foot of Lopez Mountain. Arrive at a natural overlook to enjoy imposing views of Moreno Lake and the Llao Llao Peninsula before returning to downtown Bariloche. B Hotel NH Bariloche Edelweiss (or similar)

Bariloche/Buenos Aires

Argentina

Fly to Buenos Aires, Argentina’s capital, often called the “Paris of the South.” The city is an exotic mix of European heritage and Latin spirit, evident in its architecture, culture and lifestyle. You’ll travel the Avenida 9 de Julio, the world’s widest avenue, to your downtown hotel. B Hotel Sofitel (formerly the MGallery Brick Hotel) (or similar)

Buenos Aires

Argentina

On this morning’s guided tour see the Plaza de Mayor—Argentina’s most famous square, the iconic Opera House and the historic La Boca district, known for its street tango performances. You’ll then proceed to the elegant Recoleta district and the final resting place of the infamous Evita Peron. Prior to being interred here 24 years after her death, Evita’s remains were stolen and brought to Italy before being returned to her exiled husband in Madrid and being buried by his side in the Presidential Palace three years later. Then, finally, Evita was laid to rest in her family’s…

On this morning’s guided tour see the Plaza de Mayor—Argentina’s most famous square, the iconic Opera House and the historic La Boca district, known for its street tango performances. You’ll then proceed to the elegant Recoleta district and the final resting place of the infamous Evita Peron. Prior to being interred here 24 years after her death, Evita’s remains were stolen and brought to Italy before being returned to her exiled husband in Madrid and being buried by his side in the Presidential Palace three years later. Then, finally, Evita was laid to rest in her family’s crypt here in Recoleta Cemetery. After the tour, spend the afternoon at your leisure. Tonight, you are our guest for a delicious dinner and an exhilarating performance of the tango, South America’s passionate dance. B/D Hotel Sofitel (formerly the MGallery Brick Hotel) (or similar)

Buenos Aires/Argentine Pampas

Argentina

Travel outside the city on a full-day excursion to the Argentine Pampas, where the native gauchos raise the cattle and other livestock that graze on the long grasses of these flatlands. Visit an estancia (ranch) and enjoy a sumptuous barbecue lunch followed by an authentic Gaucho Fiesta, complete with horse riding and a folklore show. B/L Hotel Sofitel (formerly the MGallery Brick Hotel) (or similar)

Buenos Aires

Argentina

The day is yours to spend however you like. Interested in taking a deeper dive into the city sites? Take a “behind the scenes” tour of the ornate Colon Opera House, visit the shops lining the renowned Florida Street or relax in one of the many outdoor cafes and parks. If you’d rather escape to nature, you can join the optional half-day Tigre Delta tour on the outskirts of Buenos Aires to enjoy the beautiful rivers, streams and numerous green islands. B Hotel Sofitel (formerly the MGallery Brick Hotel) (or similar)

Buenos Aires/Iguassu Falls

Argentina/Brazil

After breakfast, board a short flight to the Argentinean side of Iguassu Falls. You’ll soon discover why this is considered one of the greatest natural wonders of the world! Set at the border of Argentina and Brazil, the falls consist of 275 inlets and cataracts that send their cascades roaring 250 feet below. Enjoy a ride on the ecological train through the rainforest for a spectacular close-up view of the falls. Proceed to your deluxe hotel which is set amidst lush tropical gardens. B/D Mabu Thermas Grand Resort (or similar)

Iguassu Falls

Argentina/Brazil

Because Iguassu Falls is too spectacular to leave behind just yet, today you’ll be afforded a view of the dramatic Brazilian side of the falls and surrounding lush sub-tropical vegetation on an included morning tour. The afternoon is free for independent activities, shopping or relaxing beside your hotel’s hot-spring-fed pool. B Mabu Thermas Grand Resort (or similar)

Iguassu/Rio de Janeiro

Brazil

Today, you’ll catch a flight to Rio de Janeiro, often described as one of the world’s most beautiful cities. Sprawling between lush tropical mountains and the exquisite beaches of the Atlantic, Rio’s natural beauty and the warmth of its people will win your heart. This afternoon, you’ll ascend imposing Sugar Loaf Mountain by cable car to the 1,300-foot summit for stunning views of the city and surroundings. Later, you’ll ride beside the white-sand beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema before arriving at your luxurious hotel. B Sheraton Grand Rio Hotel & Resort (or…

Today, you’ll catch a flight to Rio de Janeiro, often described as one of the world’s most beautiful cities. Sprawling between lush tropical mountains and the exquisite beaches of the Atlantic, Rio’s natural beauty and the warmth of its people will win your heart. This afternoon, you’ll ascend imposing Sugar Loaf Mountain by cable car to the 1,300-foot summit for stunning views of the city and surroundings. Later, you’ll ride beside the white-sand beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema before arriving at your luxurious hotel. B Sheraton Grand Rio Hotel & Resort (or similar)

Rio de Janeiro

Brazil

How will you do Rio? You have the entire day to decide! Jewelry fans will love shopping for authentic gemstones. Culture hounds can explore the city’s museums and historic monuments. Sunbathers can spend the day basking in the rays on the beach. If you’d rather get out of the city, you can join our optional full-day excursion to the picturesque mountain resort of Petropolis, 42 miles away. It’s such a desirable destination that Pedro II, the last emperor of Brazil, had a summer palace built there. Tonight, you’ll celebrate with your fellow travelers at a festive dinner. B/D…

How will you do Rio? You have the entire day to decide! Jewelry fans will love shopping for authentic gemstones. Culture hounds can explore the city’s museums and historic monuments. Sunbathers can spend the day basking in the rays on the beach. If you’d rather get out of the city, you can join our optional full-day excursion to the picturesque mountain resort of Petropolis, 42 miles away. It’s such a desirable destination that Pedro II, the last emperor of Brazil, had a summer palace built there. Tonight, you’ll celebrate with your fellow travelers at a festive dinner. B/D Sheraton Grand Rio Hotel & Resort (or similar)

Depart Rio de Janeiro

Brazil

Before leaving the big city, you’ll take a morning tour, following a cog railway that leads through the rainforest up Corcovado Mountain, a 2,300-foot peak crowned by the landmark statue of Christ the Redeemer. The views from the top of the mountain are dazzling! The balance of the day is dedicated to your leisure for last-minute sightseeing or simply relaxing by the hotel pool before being transferred to the airport for your overnight return flight to the States. B

Arrive in the U.S.

Your exciting South American Odyssey ends as you land in the U.S. this morning.

Rates are per person based on double occupancy.April 2019: Single room supplement is $799.October 2019 Onwards: Single room supplement is $949.

NEW YORK DEPARTURES: Add $100 if departing from New York (JFK)

Brazil visa fee is not included

For more information on these South American vacations, please contact us here or call us during business hours (Mon-Fri, 9:00-5:30 EST) at 800-337-7773.

Reservations and Payments Reservations can be made by phone (1-800-337-7773) and will be confirmed upon receipt of $300 per person non-refundable, non-transferable deposit which must be received within 48 hours of reservation. Full payment is due 90 days prior to departure. Baggage fees may apply. Space and prices subject to availability. For complete booking information and terms & conditions click here.

Optional ToursCustomize your trip with these optional tours.

Pricing is subject to change. Payment (non-refundable) should be made in U.S. Dollars by cash. Credit cards are not accepted. Optional tours are subject to a minimum number of participants and may be canceled if this minimum is not met. Additional optional tours may be added for your enjoyment.

Tigre Delta Morning Excursion

Buenos Aires

From approx.$72 Per Person

The Tigre Delta, located on the outskirts of Buenos Aires, boasts rivers, streams and numerous green islands, making it one of the most attractive destinations for visitors. The continuous sediment of the Parana River, which gives the river and estuary their particular brownish-red color, forms the Delta Islands. After arrival, enjoy a delightful one-hour boat ride along the waterways. En route to the Delta, you will cross the Northern suburbs of the city, where you’ll see some of the most exclusive mansions facing the river. (Minimum of 8 participants required)

Petropolis plus Hippie Fair Full-Day Tour

Rio de Janeiro

From approx.$70 Per Person

Enjoy a perfect excursion to the picturesque mountain resort of Petropolis, the summer home to the former Brazilian Imperial Family. You’ll enjoy a scenic drive on a private Macro Bus from Rio to quaint Petropolis, with its breezy mountain climate and magnificent views from 2,500 feet above sea level. En route, you’ll enjoy a tasty stop for fresh Brazilian bananas before visiting a chocolate factory. Then tour the Imperial Museum, once the Summer Palace, with collections featuring jewels and works of art once owned by the Imperial Family as well as the Crown and Scepter of Brazil’s…

Enjoy a perfect excursion to the picturesque mountain resort of Petropolis, the summer home to the former Brazilian Imperial Family. You’ll enjoy a scenic drive on a private Macro Bus from Rio to quaint Petropolis, with its breezy mountain climate and magnificent views from 2,500 feet above sea level. En route, you’ll enjoy a tasty stop for fresh Brazilian bananas before visiting a chocolate factory. Then tour the Imperial Museum, once the Summer Palace, with collections featuring jewels and works of art once owned by the Imperial Family as well as the Crown and Scepter of Brazil’s last Emperor. You’ll also visit the Old Cathedral and have some time to see the sights—including the charming village square and elegant mansions. To cap off your full-day excursion, you’ll visit the lively Hippie Market in Ipanema, where you’ll have some time to explore, before returning to the hotel. (Minimum of 10 participants required)

Sheraton Grand Rio Hotel & Resort

Your departure flights to Santiago (Chile) and return flights from Rio de Janeiro are via LATAM Airlines. You are expected to check-in for your flight at least three-and-a-half hours before the scheduled departure. Please make sure to allow sufficient time for clearing immigration and customs if you are planning a connecting flight. We recommend at least three-and-a-half hours. Please keep in mind that flight schedules are always subject to change.

Miami (MIA)

New York (JFK)

Departure Date

Depart

Return

Depart

Return

2019: Apr. 1

10:00PM

7:00AM

7:00PM

9:00AM

2019: Oct. 7

10:30PM

6:00AM

7:00PM

8:00AM

2019: Oct. 28

10:00PM

6:00AM

8:00PM

8:00AM

2019: Nov. 11

10:00PM

6:00AM

7:00PM

8:00AM

2019: Dec. 2

9:00PM

6:00AM

7:00PM

8:00AM

ADVANCE SEAT ASSIGNMENT AND FREQUENT FLYER MILES

LATAM Airlines does not assign seats in advance. Actual seat assignment will be provided at the airport. Please note that smarTours® is not involved with assigning seats. If you have a preferred seating choice, please make sure you check-in for your flight as early as possible.

LAND-ONLY TRAVELERS

International flights to/from the U.S. are not included. Land-only travelers are responsible for arranging entry and exit flights, as well as their arrival and departure transfers. smarTours cannot be held responsible for any damage caused by air schedule changes and delays. Unused land services are non-refundable.Main Tour: Land services start upon independent check-in at your Santiago hotel on Day 2 of the itinerary and end on Day 15. If you wish to join the Santiago sightseeing on Day 2, we recommend that you arrive at the restaurant Divertimento Chileno (address: Av. El Cerro s/n, esquina Pedro de Valdiva Norte, Pargue Metropolitano) by 8:30am.

PASSPORT AND VISA INFORMATION

You must be in possession of a passport valid for at least 6 months after the date of travel.

U.S. citizens do not require a visa to enter Brazil June 17, 2019 onwards. Non-U.S. citizens should check with the respective consulates of the countries on this tour for the most current visa requirements. Please note that visa procedures may change at any time. Please remember that it is your responsibility to obtain the necessary travel documents before the trip.

TICKETS AND FINAL DOCUMENTS

Your airline tickets, along with final instructions and travel tips, will be sent to you 7–10 days before the scheduled departure of your tour. Please make sure to advise us in case your address changes.

HEALTH REQUIREMENTS

You should consult your personal physician, local public health authorities or the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) as to their recommendations, including immunization for Yellow Fever.

CLIMATE

Chile, Argentina and Brazil are located in the Southern hemisphere so their seasons are the reverse seasons of the U.S. Spring is in September/October/November with daytime average temperatures in the 50s and 70s. Summer is December through February with daytime average temperatures in the 80s. Early fall is in March with daytime average temperatures in the 70s and April’s average temperatures in the 60s. You can expect cooler temperatures in the Chilean Lake district and warmer temperatures in Rio. Overnight temperatures may lower by 10-20 degrees.

NON-INCLUDED MEALS

You may dine at the hotels on this tour or nearby restaurants—ask your guide for recommendations. Average cost for dinner (excluding drinks) in hotel cafes is about $20–$25 per person. Your hotel will accept credit cards for your non-included meals.

CREDIT CARDS AND LOCAL CURRENCY

Hotels and some stores accept major credit cards. However, for “street shopping” you will need local currency or U.S. Dollars. Your hotels will be able to exchange cash to local currency. It is recommended that you bring along cash in small denominations.

BAGGAGE

Each passenger may bring one piece of checked-in luggage (suitcase) max. 44 pounds, and one carry-on not exceeding 18”x10”x8”. We recommend that you do not overpack and that you take a variety of casual separates with climate and comfort in mind.

Michael

The tour to South America exceeded our expectations marked by outstanding tour guides and breathtaking sceneries and excellent accommodations. Fernando, the tour director Was very instrumental in making this trip very successful and enjoyable.

Dona M

This was our first Smartours trip and a great start to many more! Kristina Hagelstam, our Tour Guide, went well above the call of duty to attend to our every need. The hotels were excellent, the food great, and the scenery beautiful. We especially liked the Chilean Lake District, Bariloche, Buenos Aires, and Iguassu Falls. In the Optional Tours, don't miss the Afternoon "Small Circuit Tour." The views are spectacular.

Leslie D

Trip of a lifetime and excellent guide; loved Fernando. Guides all had so much knowledge and definitely would love to go on another trip with Smart Tours.

Betty L

Fantastic trip What did I like best? All of it. Memories for a lifetime.

Helena A

robert r

Another excellent tour with Betty Levin and the professional staff at smarTours. I was amazed at all the sites we visited, the very nice hotels, the wonderful meals. And we had a great group of travelers who joined us, people literally from all around the U.S. and the world. Their varied travel experiences
added a dimension to our tour which made it even more interesting. I'll be back for another tour soon.

Arlene

wonderful trip. of us took the South American Odyssey the middle if January. Our Guide, Alex was wonderful. He was knowledgable, personable, and lots of fun. He made each day fun and full of energy. The itinerary was very good including cities, Iguazu Falls, the Lake District and a day on the Pampas. Absolutely loved Buenos Aires and to my surprise, Rio was my least favorite. I highly recommend this trip and hooefullly you will have Alex to make it even better.

Michael B

This is our third tour with smarTours but we thought the Optional tours were over priced.

Karen T

Kristina was a wonderful tour leader and all the tour guides for each location were enthusiastic about their country. The included meals were great. My favorite places were Bariloche and Iguassu Falls, but the cities we visited were also exciting. Would highly recommend the tour if you want to see the highlights of South America.

Laurie t

This is a wonderful trip! Chile is a very interesting country -good economy. Much diversity from the coast thru the mountains. The Lake District was so beautiful! Argentina is again very diverse-from the pampas to a very European city. The estancias, the Cowboys & the BBQ-delicious! Buenos aires history-think Duarte , Eva Peron. Iguassu is beautiful on both borders! Rio-Christ the redeemer statue, the beaches,-all beautiful!